One Can Lose by Gaining

They are all clapping. Hands shook mine, saying a word nobody ever did, “Congratulations!”. They are all wearing a smile — I’m not used to seeing that kind. The rigid faces, the group of people whispering, and the uncomfortable sideways glances all disappeared.

I should be happy.

Is this all of it? I’ve given up who I was to be who I am and be where I am right now.

It’s empty. I feel empty. Everything is going well, but I want to cry.

My father told me I should be strong, so I endured until now. My mother told me to be a good person by doing my best in everything I do and finding ways to help others.

I gained everything a man could ever dream of, but I lost everyone who helped me. How could I give back?

Nobody told me that I could lose everything by gaining all of it.

I wish someone did.

It’s a swift No.

“Some things aren’t up for trade.” — Mom